Odyssey Expedition
Long-term program for clients off work three or more years
There is no set timeline for regaining function, nor should anyone ever be considered a “lost cause” or a “maintenance file” no matter how long they’ve been away from work. This mindset can create a cycle of learned helplessness and limit recovery, while an “open to change” mindset can spark hope and optimism about the way forward. That’s the mindset we aim for.
We designed Odyssey Expedition for individuals facing complex physical and/or mental health challenges that haven’t improved through traditional care. Most clients have been out of work for three years or more, with some out for 10 to 15 years, or have gone through repeated cycles of sickness/disability benefits.
We take a team-based approach with professionals from various disciplines, ensuring a holistic, integrated plan of care.
Work Absence
3+ years
Assessment
Yes
Treatment Length (approx.)
36-48 weeks
What’s involved
We start with a thorough assessment over a number of sessions, involving a comprehensive, multidisciplinary evaluation from our core team including a psychologist, therapist, and psychometrist. This results in a clear and shared diagnosis and a collaborative, goal-driven journey.
We use evidence-based behavioural techniques to improve both physical and mental health, with a focus on gradually increasing and improving mobility, activity and physical function.
All assessments and sessions are delivered via our secure, health-compliant video platform, making it accessible and convenient.
Odyssey Expedition Client Journey: Maggie
The Onset
Maggie had a mostly typical childhood, marked by her parents’ divorce, her mother’s depression, and high school bullying. She went on to complete her education, became a software developer, married and had two children.
One icy December day, Maggie slipped and sustained a concussion. Despite sincere efforts to recover, her symptoms – headaches, nausea, poor focus, fatigue, neck pain, and low mood – worsened. She withdrew from daily life, sleep became a struggle, and hopelessness took over.
Three years later, her insurance provider referred her to Odyssey Health. After a thorough health history and physical/psychological assessment, Odyssey Health recommended the Expedition program.
Treatment
In treatment with her behavioral therapist and psychologist, Maggie explored her suffering and what she felt a meaningful life would look like. She shared her physical and cognitive challenges and helped shape her personalized path toward change. Treatment focused on values-based goals, using tools like mindfulness, pacing, sleep hygiene, individualized physical activity and planning. Her therapist walked alongside her throughout it all, often literally.
Although her headaches worsened early in treatment, the tools and support helped Maggie slowly progress. She was engaging with her family and friends again, maintaining her home, using her computer, and communicating better with her partner. Despite occasional headaches and fatigue, living life was worth it.
Return to Work
Maggie and her team created a return-to-work plan, shared with her employer. As the start date approached, worry resurfaced. Her clinicians validated her feelings and helped her use the tools she’d mastered.
The first week back to a busy workplace and curious co-workers was challenging, but with time and her new strategies things improved. Maggie’s clinicians supported her during her gradual return and for a while after. Once she was settled into her new life, they wished her well.
Check out our other programs
Odyssey
Express
Our short-term program for Clients recently off work, or absent for short periods (i.e. a few weeks/months) but less than a year. With no assessment required, clients can start within days of absence.
Odyssey
Excursion
Our medium-term program for Clients off work for one to three years, and who would benefit from state-of-the-art behavioural intervention proven to improve the psychological/psychosocial factors of their absence.